LeMars police say “several” people are dead in an apparent murder-suicide that was discovered in a family home last night (Wednesday). Police Chief Stuart Dekkenga says the investigation began with a 9-1-1 call about 6 P.M.

Chief Dekkenga says the Plymouth County Communications Center got a call from a neighbor who was concerned about the residents of the house next-door. The neighbor said he could see someone inside who needed assistance and called 9-1-1. The home is owned by Tim and Marilyn Hayden, who are the parents of two children.

Dekkenga says police were dispatched to the house immediately. He says “Officers arrived at the scene and entered the residence and observed several deceased individuals. Officers are now conducting a search of the residence in an attempt to find out what may have occurred. We are not pursing any leads that indicate a person responsible is at large at this time.” The chief’s statement did not indicate who lived at the home or the names of those involved.

LeMars Community School Superintendent Todd Wendt encourages students to come to school this (Thursday) morning. Wendt says “We will have a lot of people available to help deal with the tragedy. We would encourage students to come to school to be together and we’ll have a lot of adult support around in the building.”